July 26, 2024

Caregiving Spotlight: Caring for “Dangerous” Dan with Down Syndrome

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We extend our heartfelt thanks to Dan, Kerry, Bruce, Madison, Lindsay, and Jessica for their openness and willingness to share their experiences. We hope that by sharing their journey, others who find themselves in similar situations can find inspiration, support, and encouragement to build their own networks of care and connection.   

Meet Dan, or as he calls himself, “Dangerous Dan.” Dan has Down syndrome, but he doesn’t let that define him, sharing that he would never want to change who he is. Despite his nickname, Dangerous Dan isn’t dangerous at all; in fact, he embodies empowerment, spreading love, gratitude, and positivity wherever he goes. Getting to this positive outlook on life is a true testament to the support system that surrounds him. Dan lives with his uncle Bruce, primary caregiver, his aunt Kerry, legal guardian, and his cousin Madison. Dan is the heartbeat of his family. His presence radiates joy, drawing people in with his infectious positivity. Kerry describes Dan as a “feel-good magnet,” someone who can turn anyone’s bad day around with just a few kind words.   

Kerry and Bruce have been Dan’s caregivers since he was a child, taking guardianship after his mother moved for work. Their journey together has been filled with both challenges and profound rewards. “He has made us better people,” Kerry reflects, a sentiment echoed by Bruce and their daughter Madison, who has grown up with Dan as a constant, positive influence in her life.  

Dan is an extraordinary individual, full of talents and gifts that shine brightly despite the challenges he faces, such as being blind in one eye and having little balance. Kerry and Bruce provide a wide range of support, from managing his medical needs to assisting with daily activities like eating healthy, exercising, and ensuring his emotional well-being. While caregiving can be emotionally taxing with moments of heartbreak when Dan struggles with his identity or faces societal prejudices, it is also deeply rewarding. People often misunderstand individuals with Down syndrome, sometimes reacting with discomfort or ignorance. However, those who take the time to look beyond the surface discover remarkable talents and qualities. Dan is a singer and an entertainer with a special way of making those around him better.  

Finding Caregiving Support with Careforth  

The longstanding relationship with Careforth started sixteen years ago, when a friend recommended that the program could offer much-needed assistance. After a home visit, the Careforth team confirmed that Kerry and Bruce were eligible due to the care they were providing for Dan. Through it all, the emotional support from Careforth has been just as crucial as the practical assistance. Knowing there was always someone to talk to, someone who understood their challenges and could offer solutions, helped ease their worries and provided much-needed comfort. The program not only supported Dan but also helped Kerry and Bruce navigate the emotional landscape of caregiving, allowing them to cherish and celebrate Dan’s unique gifts even more.  

How Careforth Supports Caregivers and Families 

One particularly memorable instance of Careforth’s positive impact occurred about a year into the program. Dan had been diagnosed with sleep apnea following a sleep study, but obtaining a necessary sleep apnea machine proved to be a challenge. It was Careforth that ultimately made the difference. A dedicated Careforth team member, Karin, tirelessly coordinated with manufacturers and ensured that Dan got the equipment he needed. Within a week, a representative and technician visited their home, set up the machine, and tested masks to make sure everything was perfect. Without Careforth’s intervention, Kerry quipped that they still may have been waiting for the sleep apnea machine today.  

Joining the Careforth program brought Kerry and Bruce a sense of relief, providing reassurance and a reliable safety net. Careforth’s proactive approach ensured they were always there to assist, whether scheduling appointments or finding suitable programs for Dan. Over the years, their consistent support has significantly enhanced the family’s well-being. Dan and his family trust their care team completely. As Bruce says, “When Careforth talks, Danny listens, and suddenly it becomes his idea.”   

The Careforth app has also been a game-changer, simplifying care coordination and team communication. “The new Careforth app is incredible,” Bruce emphasizes. “It streamlines everything. Knowing someone is there to assist if needed gives us immense comfort.”  

 Going Above and Beyond  to Support Caregivers and Their Families  

Today, Jessica Broderick and Lindsay Rehrey, dedicated members of the Careforth team, have become integral to Dan’s journey. When they visit, it feels like a warm embrace for the entire family. They check in on everyone, showing genuine interest in their well-being and celebrating milestones together, like sharing in Madison’s prom excitement through pictures. When it comes to caregiving support, their educational assistance is invaluable, offering Kerry, Bruce, and Dan peace of mind regarding his future and care needs.   

Dan thrives on setting and achieving goals, a testament to his determined spirit. Every six months, with Jessica and Lindsay’s support, he updates his list of aspirations. Dan’s dream of international travel is closer to becoming a reality, as he recently got his passport and is planning a trip abroad. While Dan is excited about new experiences, he continues to excel in his part-time job working at a pizza restaurant, looking forward to his Sunday evening shifts where he serves and interacts with his community. He is always looking for ways to share his passion for music, notably delivering a cappella performances of the national anthem before events and games.  

For Dan, Careforth offers more than just a support system; it has created a foundation of independence and an extension of his family, showcasing the power of community. Dan is able to pursue his passions and live with confidence, knowing there’s a caring network always by his side. His journey isn’t just about individual empowerment; it’s a story of family strength and the profound impact of Careforth’s support. As Dan aptly puts it, “Careforth is like a family to us because family is not blood. Family are people who love each other.” This sentiment resonates deeply within his family and reflects the transformative influence of Careforth, ensuring Dan and others like him can thrive in their homes and communities.  

Careforth Supports Family Caregivers  

At Careforth, we strive to provide the resources and connections that ensure caregivers feel supported at every turn in their caregiving journey. Visit the How We Help page on our site to learn more about how Careforth supports caregivers, or contact uscontact us for more information.